The ultimate guide to camping during the fall

Get outside to see all the red, orange and yellow around you!

We’ve covered fall music, activities and there’s yet a lot more to come. But what about the gift that is always given? I’m talking about nature, by the way.

Camping doesn’t need to remain loyal only to the summer months. Still, there are a few road bumps you can come across when camping in the fall that you probably wouldn’t consider during the summer, like layering your clothes or finding the best spot to maximize your camping-in-the-fall experience.

If you’re looking for tips on how to keep your camping adventures going into the colder months, keep reading!

Prep prep prep

Two people holding map and clear compass. camping — *Picture by* *Daniil Silantev* *via* *Unsplash*

First things first, get to know your camping location, camping spot and basically everything and anything else as much as possible beforehand. I know it’s super cool and super mysterious to just pack up your things and go, but your preparation for the weather conditions can really make or break your experience.

If you really want to have an immersive fall camping experience, the location can determine what dominant leaf colours you will come across. Ontario Parks is a great website to find the provincial parks near you, with access to frequently updated data on each park, the dominant leaf colour, leaf fall and best viewing points. Ontario Parks identifies the nearest parks near Humber Polytechnic Lakeshore, North and University of Guelph-Humber campuses to be Forks of the Credit Provincial Park and Bronte Creek Provincial Park. Of course, there are a ton of other options to choose from in the area.

Depending on the vibe of your trip, there isn’t any harm in figuring out what exactly you’ll be doing. Whether it may be hiking, bird watching, leaf collecting or canoeing, getting to know your location is essential for your success!

Packing 101

Black hiking backpack near white Fujifilm instax mini camera near black leather boots, red half-zip jacket, gray pocket watch on white map. — *Picture by* *Alice Donovan Rouse* *via* *Unsplash*

As I’ve reiterated before, you really need to prepare for the cold weather. For starters, invest in a sleeping bag that has an R-value between two to four for camping in the fall. There are options out there from as low as $40 to ones between $100 to $250, it really comes down to your preference. It’s also highly recommended to invest in a sleeping bag liner for extra insulation and there are a ton to choose from!

Now, for clothing, there is a little bit of a science behind it. To put it short, layering is your best friend. Why? Well, when the weather is constantly changing in temperatures, your body is at risk of cooling too quickly. So, when you camp in cold weather, it’s essential to dress in a base layer, mid layer and shell.

Your base layer should be a tighter fit on you, merino wool and synthetic fabrics are the most effective in repelling moisture. Your mid-layer is the opportunity for those fall sweaters and vests to shine. Make sure they aren’t tight-fitting or oversized. This layer will be responsible for providing warmth! At last, your shell is ideally ready to fight against the rain and wind. Pro tip — always check the waterproof ratings to have a better idea of how your shell layer will protect you in light and heavy rains.

No harm in thinking ahead

Man points to his temple and smirks. — *Via GIPHY*

I promise this is the last time I’ll say it — being prepared for anything, especially during the cold months, is so important!

Make sure you bring extra batteries for flashlights for those late-night walks in the woods, hand and feet warmers for when you need some extra warmth, high-energy snacks to stay energized for longer periods and a compact First Aid kit for any minor emergencies. You’ll thank yourself later.

Marshmallows on fire pit. camping — *Picture by Leon Contreras via Unsplash*

So, what are you waiting for? Fall doesn’t have to be reserved only for typical activities like pumpkin carving or getting lost in a corn maze — my personal favourite fall activity, may I add.

Before I go, I must make a confession. I’ve never camped in my life. At least now I know all the ins and outs of camping in the fall for whenever I decide to commit to it, if ever.

Feature image courtesy of Eulauretta via Unsplash.

Is camping not really your thing? Check out activities to keep you moving as the leaves fall!